US Returned Scientist and Entrepreneur Saya Date Debuts Film Industry with ‘Tango Malhar’!

Tango Malhar promises to present an inspiring journey of a rickshaw driver on the big screen. The magic of cinema often draws people from all walks of life, and for some, the urge to make a film is irresistible. One such example is computer scientist and entrepreneur #SayaDate, who has taken on both production and direction for the upcoming Marathi film Tango Malhar. The film’s poster was recently unveiled on social media, and it is now set for a statewide release on September 19.

Produced under the banner of Aglets and Eyelets Production, Tango Malhar follows the story of Malhar, a young rickshaw driver eager to explore something new. By chance, he discovers the Argentine dance form “Tango” and develops a deep fascination for it. This passion sets off a chain of engaging and life-changing events, which form the core of the film’s narrative. The screenplay has been co-written by Saya Date and Manish Dharamani. The technical crew includes Sumedh Tarde and Omkar Athawale (cinematography), Kshama Padalkar (editing), Tushar Kangarkar (sound design), and Shardul Bapat and Udayan Kanade (music and background score). The cast features newcomers Nitesh Kamble, Keerthi Vishwanathan, Seema Vartak, Akshay Gaikwad, Manish Dharamani, Manisha Mahaladar, Sandesh Suryavanshi, and Pankaj Sonawane.

Saya Date holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). She worked for over a decade in the tech industry, including a stint at YouTube in Silicon Valley, before returning to India to establish her own company in Pune. Her achievements earned her a place in Forbes’ “30 Under 30” list for her contributions to business and technology.

Her passion for filmmaking, however, began in childhood. At the age of 12, she directed a short film titled On the Other Line, which went on to receive accolades at several international festivals. A trained tango dancer herself, Saya’s creative instincts never waned, even while excelling in the tech and business worlds. With Tango Malhar, she finally steps into the world of Marathi cinema, making her debut as both producer and director. The film’s unique blend of personal passion, dance, and an uplifting story makes it one of the most anticipated Marathi releases of the year.

By Keerti Kadam